From 1967 to 1974, the Indiana Pacers were housed in the Pepsi Coliseum, before the construction of Market Square Arena in downtown Indianapolis. In 2008, the Pacers commemorated their history by hosting their pre-season opening game at the Pepsi Coliseum, wearing the classic uniforms. Although the Pacers lost the game, the event was a tribute to Indianapolis basketball and the surviving Pacers who played in the American Basketball Association (ABA), before the Pacers were franchised with the NBA in 1976.

Many politicians have visited the Pepsi Coliseum throughout history. In 2005, Governor Mitch Daniels was sworn into office and gave his inaugural address to a full house. In 2003, President George W. Bush was the first sitting president to give a speech at the Coliseum. Presidential candidate John F. Kennedy made a stop at the venue on his campaign trail in 1960.

A tragedy occurred at the Pepsi Coliseum in 1963. During the premier of Holiday on Ice, a propane leak caused an explosion near the concession stands. More than 70 people were killed and nearly 400 were injured. The facility was quickly restored, and a monument was placed to honor the accident victims.

The retro structure of the 70-year-old Pepsi Coliseum was used as a model design for the Lucas Oil Stadium, which opened in 2008. The Coliseum holds a special place in Indianapolis history, and has seen many renovations over the years. In 1988, there were small upgrades to the arena. Ten years later, there was a $1 million upgrade. In the late ’90s, the original wooden seats were replaced by recycled chairs from the RCA Dome, which was demolished about 10 years later.

For more information on the Pepsi Coliseum, please visit the venue’s homepage.